Real World Applications for Algebraic Functions

1. Idenity Function: f(x) = x
Chemistry. A representation of a chemical reaction, usually written as a linear array in which the symbols and quantities of the reactants are separated from those of the products by an equal sign, an arrow, or a set of opposing arrows.
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2. Square Function: f(x) = x^2

3. Cube Function: f(x) = x^3

Cubic functions can be used to model real world data, like container measurements or magnetic energy models.

http://www.chacha.com/question/what-is-a-cubic-function-used-for

4. Reciprocal Function: f(x) = 1/x

Extremity dominance is balanced through reciprocal function; i.e. left arm moves with right leg and vice versa.

http://www.kgbanswers.com/how-is-the-reciprocal-function-used-in-real-life/4805438#ixzz1cIOd1oSe

5. Square Root Function: f(x) = x^(1/2)

Electrical engineers use it in calculating power factor and electrical load distribution when dealing with 3 phase power connections.

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_a_real_life_application_of_the_square_root_function#ixzz1cI2JigH5

6. Cube Root Function: f(x) = x^(1/3)

7. Absolute Value Function: f(x) = IxI

Time. Time cannot be negative, only positive.
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Exmaple_of_real_life_absolute_value_function

8. Constant Function: f(x) = b (b is any real number)

The constant Pi is used to find the perimeter of a circle which is known as the circumference.

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